The black-red coalition of the CDU, CSU, and SPD faces decisive weeks. Before the parliamentary summer break, the alliance wants to agree on several major reforms—in statutory health insurance, pensions, and long-term care insurance. The author sees opportunities for a genuine fresh start but also warns of the political pitfalls.
Health Insurance: 16-Billion Savings Package Under Scrutiny
As the only reform project so far, the government has presented a relatively ambitious savings program for statutory health insurance. It includes savings of around 16 billion euros and is based on proposals from an expert group. The goal is to curb rising contributions, which would otherwise continue to burden employees and employers. However, the legislative package is only now entering parliament, where changes are still likely. Particularly controversial is the idea of making previously cost-free insured spouses pay in the future. The financing of health costs for basic income recipients also remains a point of contention.
Pensions: Commission Report Expected on June 29
Even more sharply than health insurance, the aging of society affects the statutory pension insurance. A commission appointed by the black-red coalition is to present its proposals on June 29. Among other things, recommendations are expected on raising the retirement age or linking the annual pension increase to inflation instead of wage growth. The sticking point: the SPD opposes any cut in the pension level or a higher retirement age, while the Union wants to prevent rising contributions for employees and employers.
Long-Term Care Insurance: Structural Underfunding and Many Open Questions
Statutory long-term care insurance is structurally underfunded. The Health Ministry expects a deficit of around 7.6 billion euros for 2027; without reform, the gap could grow to 15.4 billion euros by 2028. Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) has drafted an initial reform proposal that, among other things, provides for care recipients to receive less money and for higher subsidies for nursing home stays to only flow after six months. Relatives who provide care would receive lower pension contributions. Resistance is strong: the SPD fears for those in need of care, while the CSU sharply criticizes the plans.
Whether the coalition will actually push through all reforms by mid-July remains to be seen. The author sees potential for a breakthrough but warns that the devil is in the details.
Source: www.t-online.de
